England Netball at 100

Next years plans have already started celebrating to celebrate 100 years.

Ahead of the celebrations next year in 2026, we have already announced our intention to look back on our TEN years officially being online as one of the first regular weekly netball podcasts in the UK

England have also announced their initial plans under the “England Netball at 100: A fearless story of women, communities and change” title

From humble beginnings at Dartford College, thanks to the pioneering spirit of Madame Österberg, netball is now the most played team sport by women in England, and with 3 million people playing the sport annually, it has grown into one of the nation’s most powerful movements for women, communities, and change.

England Netball’s Centenary will bring the sport’s heritage to life in new ways, with a six-month national exhibition hosted at Heritage Quay in Huddersfield. Here, visitors will have the chance to see and feel the 100-year strong story of England Netball, from the evolution of the rules and the rise of iconic players, to the countless volunteers who have shaped the game at every level.

Alongside this, netball’s present and future will be celebrated on court as the Centenary celebrations will form an important part of England Netball and the Vitality Roses’ preparations for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. England Netball’s proud history in the event (including the Vitality Roses’ historic gold medal win in 2018) will be celebrated throughout the road to the Glasgow 2026, culminating in nine days of world-class competition as netball nations from across the Commonwealth come together to compete on the world stage. This pinnacle event will give fans the chance to feel the passion and energy that has defined netball for generations, whilst simultaneously inspiring a new generation, and bringing new fans into the proudly female Netball Family, where all are welcome.

The Centenary will also showcase the ways netball has been a platform for leadership, equality, and national impact. By shining a spotlight on untold stories and amplifying diverse voices, England Netball will ensure the Centenary connects past, present and future.

England Netball CEO, Fran Connolly said: “2026 promises to be a historic and special year for our sport. As we celebrate England Netball’s centenary and champion all of those who have built the sport in this country from the ground up, we will also look ahead and create stars of the future as the Vitality Roses compete on the world stage, bringing increased visibility and inspiring women and girls across the country to pick up a netball and fall in love with our sport. The Netball Family is a truly special collective, and I cannot wait for us to come together to celebrate 100 years of England Netball in a multitude of different ways next year.”

Lesley Tischler, President of Poly Netball Club, who hold the Guinness World Record for being the world’s oldest netball club, commented on the importance of the Centenary celebrations saying: “At Poly Netball Club, we’re immensely proud to be recognised as the Oldest Netball Club in Continuous Existence in the World and our rich history gives us a unique perspective on the significance of this Centenary. For us, this milestone is not only a celebration of 100 years of England Netball but also an opportunity to acknowledge the countless volunteers, officials, players and communities across the country who have dedicated their time and energy to building the sport.

“This moment serves as a powerful reminder that all our netball journeys, whether at elite or grassroots level, are defined by community, collaboration and fun. We are committed to ensuring that the next generation inherits a sport that is stronger and more inclusive than ever before, where everyone can thrive and contribute to our vibrant club culture. As we celebrate this Centenary, we look forward to building on our proud legacy and continuing to embrace and empower every member of our Netball Family.”